Yesterday, my kids and I met up with some friends in Hamilton. Since the Art Gallery of Hamilton offers Family Fun Days on the last Sunday of each month, my friend suggested we head there for our playdate to enjoy some art-making activities with the kids. It's great because pre-registration is not required and non-members have to pay only $5 per family. Fortunately, they waived the cost (I'm not sure why) and the kids had lots of fun creating their own paintings. The activities run from 1:30 to 3:30 but they also had a children's performer on stage starting at 3, for no additional cost. Score!

The show was put on by a children's education and world entertainment company called Mystic Drumz. The sole performer was the company's founder Lorne Lampert who holds a degree in education. Let me tell you, this guy was so witty and funny, I had tears in my eyes from laughing so hard. He has an incredible knack for telling stories that engage the imagination and introduce percussion instruments from all over the world to children who hang on to his every word. So as we sat there and listened to The Legend of Marshmallow Island, I kept thinking, "Man, this guy would be great to have at a kid's birthday party!" And sure enough, he's available for birthday parties. I don't usually throw big parties for the kids but I think I might this year. Lorne would put on a great show, I'm sure. I tell ya, he's good at what he does. He really is!


Of all the unusual and cool instruments he shared, my favourite was the gong. Who knew it could make a sound so loud that it was almost deafening? The kids loved it, too. At one point during the story, he invited a child up to the stage and transformed him into an alien with the help of güiro. It was brilliant!


On the way out, we decided to stop by the shop and saw some really unique and handmade items. What caught my eye was a really cool looking purse made with pop can tabs. It also came with a not so cool price tag of $140. I was also drawn to some adorable organic storage bins and caddies by 3 Sprouts. Little did I know that the company belongs to my friend's friend, who I haven't seen in years because she's been working all over in the fashion industry. I'm so glad to see her cute baby and children's items on store shelves!


If you live in or near Hamilton, the Art Gallery has additional Family Fun Days planned on the following dates from 1:30-3:30pm:

2011 - December 27, 28, 29, 30,
2012 - January 3, 4, 5, 6

For more information on Mystic Drumz, visit MysticDrumz.com.